Santa's Elves FAQ

Who receives the gifts?

The gifts will go to families living in Colorado’s poorest neighborhoods within the Denver Housing Authority (near the Bronco’s stadium).

26,000 residents live in the Denver Housing Authority, and 80 percent of families live in poverty, according to neighborhood data with an average household income of $10,000 per year.

The percentage of children growing up in poverty in DHA is among the highest in the state.

We work directly with Denver Housing Authority and the Rude Recreation Center to identify the children and families most in need.

Why should I participate?

This is a chance to inspire life-long giving in your child’s life. It’s a fun and easy way to show your child how to give back and invest in your hometown. Unlike most other charities, we provide a hands-on experience for young children, helping kids give to kids. It’s just once a year, but something they’ll talk about year-round.

How do we know what gifts to give?

After you register (get started here) we will email you the child’s wish list as inspiration for selecting an age-appropriate gift or gifts. Most people spend about $30 on each child, but some spend more. It’s up to you to decide how much you want to spend and how many gifts you would like to give.

Do the gifts need to be wrapped?

Yes. Clearly label every gift with “To:” and “From.” Make sure to include the child’s assigned Family Number on the each gift. If your gifts are large and awkward to carry, please also bring a bag for the resident family to carry the gifts home.

Should we write a letter to the child?

Absolutely! Consider having your child write a note to the receiver. This is a chance for your child to get creative, color, and write a special note. It is not required, but can be a fun activity for the family to do together. It can also be the start of a new friendship.

Can I tell my friends, school, work, church and neighborhood kids about this?

Please help us spread the word. Telling others means more kids will be helped this Christmas and it will further the mission of life-long giving. Start now by ‘Liking us’ on Facebook’. Click here for a printable flyer to share with your friends.

What is the deadline to register for a child?

You must register to help a child(ren) by Friday, December 1, 2017

How do we deliver the gifts to our ‘adopted’ kids?

That’s easy. Get started here. You can either give gifts during an event on December 9, 2017 or deliver the gifts right to the family’s home anytime before December 4, 2017.

Where do I park?

Just click here to see directions, maps and parking for the event locations.

Remember to get there 15 minutes ahead of your event time in order to check in.

How do I prepare my child and family for the event?

The Santa’s Elves team strives to ensure that both Givers and Receivers have a special and memorable experience. It is important to prepare yourself and your children for any range of experiences that might happen given the population we serve in the Denver Housing Authority neighborhoods. Please check out a few tips to ensure your family is prepared to adapt to whatever you might experience.

I registered to go to the party on December 9th, but now I can’t make it. What do I do?

No problem! Send us an email at contact@kidsgiving365.org and we will work with you to develop a backup plan. Our team can deliver the gifts on your behalf, or we will make special arrangements for you to deliver them directly to the resident family’s home. Make sure you’ve wrapped and clearly labeled the gifts with the child’s family number.

I lost my child’s wish-list. What do I do now?

First, check your spam folder for an email from contact@kidsgiving365.org.

If you still can’t find it, contact us, fill out the form, and our staff will reply quickly.

I never received the confirmation email, what do I do?

If you still can’t find it, contact us, fill out the form, and our staff will reply quickly.

I’ve noticed that some of the kids have asked for computers or video games or iPods. Those are expensive! Do I have to buy those for the children?

No. You decide what gift or gifts to buy the child for Christmas and how much to spend. Please use the child’s wish list only as a guide. Our staff has thought long and hard about this issue. We’ve decided it’s not fair to limit the child’s dreams. After all, the kids in the housing authority can see that other children have those items, and naturally desire them too. Plus, many businesses and groups join Santa’s Elves and do provide electronic gifts. So, we’ve decided to leave it up to you.

Is my contribution tax deductible?

KidsGiving365 FAQ

Why did you change your name from Santa’s Elves to KidsGiving365?

Santa’s Elves – Kids Giving to Kids was our original name. When we decided to expand by creating volunteer opportunities for children year-round, we changed our name to KidsGiving365. Today, Santa’s Elves is still the name of our holiday giving program, under the umbrella name of KidsGiving365.

I have the old Sana’s Elves web address booked in my browser. What is your new address?

How can I get a copy of KG365’s annual report?

I’d like to see how KidsGiving365 spends it’s donor money. Is the financial 990 tax form online?

You can access our tax forms here.

What are the benefits of involving kids in volunteering and teaching them philanthropy?

KG365 teaches children about philanthropy and creates opportunities to serve kids in need in our community.

Research shows volunteering and community service nationwide is at its lowest rate in 12 years.[1] KidsGiving365 creates opportunities for everyone, especially kids, to give back. Children who volunteer are more likely to continue doing so as adults.[2] Volunteering can nurture important life skills and values in children and show them that small acts can make a big difference.[3] Volunteering makes people happy (even toddlers) and improves the quality of life.[4]

Few nonprofits allow young children to get involved in community service. KidsGiving365 allows everyone, of every age, to dig in and help.We know that volunteering teaches kids about compassion, gratitude and community responsibility. And studies show children as young as three understand and experience the benefits. Plus, kids who volunteer do better in school, have better self-esteem, and are less likely to get pregnant and try drugs.[5]

Many people wonder if their time and donation dollars make a difference, because they rarely see the results. On KidsGiving365.org, volunteers choose the underserved kids they want to help, then meet them, face-to-face.That’s good, because studies show people under the age of 35 need to know their support is appreciated and that it makes an impact.[6] Young people see things differently after engaging in meaningful, face-to-face interactions with diverse groups, witnessing human suffering first-hand, and connecting in new ways with the environment. So, experts say the best way to recognize good work is to let children see, touch and feel their results, ideally from the person they helped.[7][JR3]

KidsGiving365 teaches young people the tools and actions of philanthropy, and creates opportunities for civic engagement. Only a small percentage of schools require community service, yet studies show when kids volunteer, they develop more charitable attitudes, beliefs and behaviors.[9] Giving time, treasure and talent prepares students to be innovative and reflective leaders, and good citizens. [10] Experts say teaching children to care about others is better for them, and for us all.

What kind of activities can I do with my child or their class, scout troop or club to inspire life-long giving?

You ought to see what my kids just did! Can I tell you about it?

We’d love to hear what your kids, their club, troop or even your business did to help children. You can email us your story at Contact@KidsGiving365.org or you can click here and fill out this online form. Remember to include pictures and/or video!

Sounds cool, but what exactly is KidsGiving365?

Great question! We are a nonprofit organization that creates opportunities for kids of any age in Colorado to volunteer and engage in philanthropy. Those children help other children who live in poverty in Colorado. The children get to meet each other in person, which shows them that their actions matter and they can make a difference. Read more about us here. That being said, we welcome businesses, churches, scout troops and any other club to get involved if they desire to help children in need here at home.

How old do you have to be to get involved with KidsGiving365? Most organizations have age limits.

Not us! You can be a newborn (it’s true) OR what we like to call, ‘a kid at heart.’ We have parents with their babies participating and even grandparents who pitch in to help. Our programs are designed so that anyone, any age, can participate in the program or volunteer. Again, we welcome any young children, teenagers, and adults who have a desire to help children in need in Colorado.

EVENTS

Where can I sign up to be notified about upcoming events?

Visit our Contact Us page, fill out the form, and let us know to add you to our mailing list, and we will send you emails letting you know about upcoming events.

How are photos and videos taken at the events used by KidsGiving365?

We take photos and videos of our events and post them on our Facebook page, website and other media to inspire other children to give back, no matter where they live. Read our media disclaimer here.

What events are held by KG365?

We put on two events annually to engage children in volunteering and philanthropy. (We hope to put on even more in the future!) The two events are: Back-to-School and our holiday program, Santa’s Elves. If you’re looking for ideas of things to do with your kids during other times of the year, check out KidsGiving365!

DONATIONS

How is my donation used by KG35?

What forms of payment are accepted?

The easiest way to donate is by visiting our Donate page and using a debit/cretit card. You can also set up recurring donations! There is also information on this page for sending a check through the mail. To donate goods, services, or other monetary forms, please contact us directly through the phone or email provided on the Donate page.

Can I set up a recurring donation payment?

Of course! The easiest way to set up your recurring donation is by visiting our Donate page and using a debit/credit card. You can also set up recurring donations! There is also information on this page for sending a check through the mail. To donate goods, services, or other monetary forms, please contact us directly through the phone or email provided on the Donate page.

Is making a donation through the KG365 website secure?

Yes! We partner with WePay, a certified Level 1 PCI Compliant Service Provider (the highest level), to process your donation. Detailed information about WePay’s security can be found on the WePay site at https://go.wepay.com/security.

Question suggestion: I want my business to help! Do you accept goods and services? What kind do you need?

Yes! We are always in need of supplies for our events and to run our organization. To donate goods, services, or other monetary forms, please contact us directly through the phone or email provided on the Donate page.

I’m involved with a group that would like to hold a drive to collect items to donate to KG365. What types of items are needed? Who do we contact to get started?

Please visit our Contact Us page and complete the form letting us know how you can help. We will direct your email to the correct person on our team to follow up with you! Wow! Thanks in advance for all of your help!

My business would like to sponsor your next event! How do we get involved?

Please visit our Contact Us page and complete the form letting us know how you can help. We will direct your email to the correct person on our team to follow up with you! Wow! Thanks in advance for all of your help!

VOLUNTEER

How can I volunteer with KG365? Do you give high school or college credit?

Please visit our Volunteer page and complete the form letting us know how you can help. We will direct your email to the correct person on our team to follow up with you! Wow! Thanks in advance for all of your help!

What kind of volunteers do you need? What if I have a special talent or skill to offer?

Please visit our Volunteer page and complete the form letting us know how you can help. We will direct your email to the correct person on our team to follow up with you! We need all sorts of volunteers – volunteers for our event, volunteers who can help with seasonal programs/campaigns, and volunteers who can help 1-2 hours a week on a regular basis.

Is there a minimum age requirement for my child to volunteer with KG365?

No. We work with volunteers of all ages (as long as an adult is present to supervise). You can be a newborn (it’s true) OR what we like to call, ‘a kid at heart.’ We have parents with their babies volunteering and even grandparents who pitch in to help. Our programs are designed so that anyone, any age, can participate in the program or volunteer Again, we welcome any young children, teenagers, and adults who have a desire to help children in need in Colorado.

I don’t have time to volunteer. How else can I help?

Please visit our Contact Us page and complete the form letting us know how you can help. We will direct your email to the correct person on our team to follow up with you! Or visit our donate page – we are always in need of financial support to run and grow our programs.

Back-to-School FAQ

Who receives the school supplies?

The school supplies will go to families living in Colorado’s poorest neighborhoods within the Denver Housing Authority.

26,000 residents live in the Denver Housing Authority, and 80 percent of families live in poverty, according to neighborhood data with an average household income of $10,000 per year.

The percentage of children growing up in poverty in DHA is among the highest in the state.

We work directly with Denver Housing Authority to identify the children and families most in need.

Why should I participate?

This is a chance to inspire life-long giving in your child’s life. It’s a fun and easy way to show your child how to give back and invest in your hometown. Unlike most other charities, we provide a hands-on experience for young children, helping kids give to kids. It’s just once a year, but something they’ll talk about year-round.

How do we know what school supplies to give?

After you register (get started here), we will email you the child’s school supply list as inspiration for selecting grade-appropriate supplies. Most people spend about $30 on each child, but some spend more. It’s up to you to decide how much you want to spend and how many school supplies you would like to give.

Do the school supplies need to be wrapped?

Yes. Clearly label the supplies with “To:” and “From:.” Make sure to include the child’s assigned Family Number on the supplies. If the supplies are large and awkward to carry, please also bring a bag for the resident family to carry them home.

Should we write a letter to the child?

Absolutely! Consider having your child write a note to the receiver. This is a chance for your child to get creative, color, and write a special note. It is not required, but can be a fun activity for the family to do together. It can also be the start of a new friendship.

Can I tell my friends, school, work, church and neighborhood kids about this?

Please help us spread the word. Telling others means more kids will be helped to get ready for the 2017/2018 school year and it will further the mission of life-long giving. Start now by ‘Liking us’ on Facebook’.

What is the deadline to register for a child?

You must register to help a child(ren) by Friday, July 28, 2017

How do we deliver the school supplies to our ‘adopted’ kids?

That’s easy. Give the school supplies during an event at South Lowell Community on August 5, 2017.

Where do I park?

Just click here to see directions, a map and parking for the South Lowell Community Center.

Remember to get there 15 minutes ahead of your event time in order to check in.

How do I prepare my child and family for the event?

The KidsGiving365 team strives to ensure that both givers and receivers have a special and memorable experience. It is important to prepare yourself and your children for any range of experiences that might happen given the population we serve in the Denver Housing Authority neighborhoods. Please check out a few tips to ensure your family is prepared to adapt to whatever you might experience.

I registered to go to the event on August 5, but now I can’t make it. What do I do?

No problem! Send us an email at contact@kidsgiving365.org and we will work with you to develop a backup plan. Our team can deliver the school supplies on your behalf. Make sure you’ve wrapped and clearly labeled the school supplies with the child’s family number.

I lost my child’s school supply list. What do I do now?

First, check your spam folder for an email from contact@kidsgiving365.org

If you still can’t find it, contact us, fill out the form, and our staff will reply quickly.

Is my contribution tax deductible?

KidsGiving365 FAQ

What are the benefits of involving kids in volunteering and teaching them philanthropy?

KG365 teaches children about philanthropy and creates opportunities to serve kids in need in our community.

Research shows volunteering and community service nationwide is at its lowest rate in 12 years. KidsGiving365 creates opportunities for everyone, especially kids, to give back. Children who volunteer are more likely to continue doing so as adults. Volunteering can nurture important life skills and values in children and show them that small acts can make a big difference. Volunteering makes people happy (even toddlers) and improves the quality of life.

Few nonprofits allow young children to get involved in community service. KidsGiving365 allows everyone, of every age, to dig in and help. We know that volunteering teaches kids about compassion, gratitude and community responsibility. And studies show children as young as three understand and experience the benefits. Plus, kids who volunteer do better in school, have better self-esteem, and are less likely to get pregnant and try drugs.

Many people wonder if their time and donation dollars make a difference, because they rarely see the results. At KidsGiving365.org, volunteers choose the underserved kids they want to help, then meet them, face-to-face. That’s good, because studies show people under the age of 35 need to know their support is appreciated and that it makes an impact. Young people see things differently after engaging in meaningful, face-to-face interactions with diverse groups, witnessing human suffering first-hand, and connecting in new ways with the environment. So, experts say the best way to recognize good work is to let children see, touch and feel their results, ideally from the person they helped.

Studies show technology has made many kids self-absorbed and cut off from the realities of the world. (Studies show young people today have 40% less empathy than previous generations.) KidsGiving365 teaches young people the tools and actions of philanthropy, and creates opportunities for civic engagement. Only a small percentage of schools require community service, yet studies show when kids volunteer, they develop more charitable attitudes, beliefs and behaviors. Giving time, treasure and talent prepares students to be innovative and reflective leaders, and good citizens. Experts say teaching children to care about others is better for them, and for us all.

EVENTS

What events are held by KG365?

We hold two face-to-face events annually to engage children in volunteering and philanthropy. (We hope to put on even more in the future!) The two events are: Back-to-School and our holiday program, Santa’s Elves. If you’re looking for ideas of things to do with your kids during other times of the year, check out KidsGiving365!